Celebrating "The Sound of Our City"
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The Greater Bakersfield Chamber honored Bakersfield’s most inspiring individuals, businesses and organizations on Saturday, June 13th, at the 36th Annual Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union. More than 700 community leaders, residents, business professionals and supporters gathered to celebrate the people and projects helping make Bakersfield a better place to live, work and visit.
This year’s theme, “The Sound of Our City,” celebrated the voices, ideas and actions that create a stronger Bakersfield. A total of 95 nominees across 17 categories were recognized for their contributions to community service, education, health care, economic development, arts and culture, hospitality and civic leadership.
A Better Bakersfield – Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente Kern County
An annual event or project that greatly improves the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Ford Dimension and Dream Builders Student Leadership – This program empowered local students to tackle real community challenges through service projects focused on education, scholarships and literacy. By connecting young leaders to meaningful opportunities, the program helped inspire the next generation of community changemakers.
The nominees in this category included:
- Bakersfield Firefighters Historical Society
- Bakersfield Prosthetics & Orthotics Center (BPOC)
- Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County – Summer Jobs Program
- CALM HolidayLights
- Kern County Career & STEM Expo
- Pathways to Health Symposium
Architecture & Design – Sponsored by Ordiz-Melby Architects
The completion of an innovative new building or space, showcasing an outstanding interior or exterior design that harmonizes with its environment.
Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire Inc. – Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire Inc. strengthened neighborhoods through affordable housing construction, critical home repairs and financial literacy education. Their work continues to create pathways to stability and homeownership for Bakersfield families.
The nominees in this category included:
- Adventist Health Bakersfield Emergency Department
- Avanza Autos by Jim Burke
- Bakersfield College – Combined Gym & Field House (Renegade Athletic Complex)
- North of the River Recreation & Park District
- Terra Vista at Tejon
Arts & Culture – Sponsored by Tejon Ranch Company
Efforts to enrich and elevate arts and culture within the Bakersfield community.
Southwest Library – Leadership Bakersfield Team 4 – In 2025, Leadership Bakersfield Team 4 transformed the children’s area at the Southwest Library into a welcoming and engaging space that promotes literacy, creativity and family connection. The project will benefit Bakersfield families for years to come.
The nominees in this category included:
- Digital Marketing & Media Design program at CTEC
- Laurel Powell – Powell Gallery
- Spotlight Academy of the Arts
Urban Core – Sponsored by City of Bakersfield
An individual, business, or coalition working to make downtown Bakersfield safer, more vibrant and economically thriving.
Woolworth’s Building – The historic Woolworth’s Building reopened as a vibrant downtown destination featuring a restored luncheonette, coffee shop and event space. The project created jobs, attracted visitors and breathed new life into Bakersfield’s urban core.
The nominees in this category included:
- ELEV8 Gyms
- Live Well Give Well Community Cookout
Educational Excellence – Sponsored by California Resources Corporation
Educators, projects or institutions advancing educational opportunities and achievement across all levels in the community.
Bakersfield College – Bakersfield College expanded educational pathways through record-setting early college enrollment, innovative workforce partnerships and new opportunities in healthcare and advanced technology. Their efforts continue to prepare students for success while strengthening the region’s workforce.
The nominees in this category included:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County – ENABLE Program
- Industrial Technology Skills Challenge
- Kern County Superintendent of Schools STEAM Yard
- Valley Strong Credit Union
- Youth Against Commercial Tobacco (Y-ACT) Summit
At the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, Valerie Hashim and her husband Chuck celebrated their contributions to Bakersfield’s arts and culture scene. Valerie, the mother of Andrea Hansen and a founding member of the Kern Dance Alliance, was celebrated alongside her husband (Andrea’s father) on the anniversary of their first date. This special evening coincided with the 50th anniversary of their wedding. Their love story began at the Civic Auditorium (now the Mechanics Bank Theater and Arena) in 1968, where they saw Jimi Hendrix perform. The event was a beautiful tribute to their enduring love,and their family joined them to make it a truly memorable evening.
Next-Gen – Sponsored by Kern County Superintendent of Schools
A young individual or group (grades K-12) with exceptional citizenship and community involvement.
Ella Jane Magdalene Porter – Ella Jane Magdalene Porter completed more than 100 hours of community service while organizing fundraisers and connecting fellow students with volunteer opportunities. Her leadership demonstrates that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference.
The nominees in this category included:
- Juan Antonio López Morales
- Luna Zelda-Sol New
- Paikea Solei Cota
Health & Wellness – Sponsored by Heart Vascular and Leg Center
An individual, group or organization that went beyond their normal activities to promote healthy living through education, prevention or medical services.
Adventist Health High-Risk Genetics Clinic – The Adventist Health High-Risk Genetics Clinic expanded access to specialized testing, counseling and preventative care, empowering families to better understand and manage hereditary health risks through early detection and education.
The nominees in this category included:
- Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital
- Bakersfield Family Medical Group- Health Education Department
- Bakersfield Marathon
- Blue Zones Project Bakersfield
- Dr. Shweta Agarwal
- Hoffmann Hospice
- The Haven Yoga Studio
Heart of Hospitality – Sponsored by Hard Rock Casino Tejon
Outstanding hospitality professionals in lodging, dining, events, travel, and recreation who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
Amanda Goforth – Mossman’s Catering – Amanda Goforth helped create memorable experiences at countless community events throughout 2025. Her commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail elevated every gathering she supported.
The nominees in this category included:
- Heather Dewar-Dewar’s Candy Shop
- Marie Joseph – Seven Oaks Country Club
- Ryann Florez- Hard Rock Casino Tejon
- Tyler Simone Bloomer – The Padre Hotel
Humanitarian Individual – Sponsored by Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals
An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have significantly impacted the community.
Dr. Albert Ma – For more than two decades, Dr. Albert Ma has expanded access to mental health care while also donating his talents to numerous local organizations and charitable causes. His service reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of Bakersfield residents.
The nominees in this category included:
- Cornelio Gutierrez-Lozano
- Heather Pennella
- Jaubrae Ryan Dixon
- Pawan Gill
Humanitarian Group – Sponsored by Chevron
A group whose dedicated volunteer work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Bakersfield residents
Jamison Children’s Intake Center – Leadership Bakersfield Team 2 – In 2025, Leadership Bakersfield Team 2 transformed the intake experience at Jamison Children’s Center through facility improvements, a new intake video and a community clothing drive. Their efforts created a warmer, more compassionate environment for children and families entering care.
The nominees in this category included:
- American Red Cross Disaster Action Team
- C.H.A.N.G.E.S.
- Kern County Law Enforcement Foundation
- Love From Above Community
Emerging Nonprofit – Sponsored by Kern Community Foundation
A nonprofit organization (1-10 years old) who made a significant impact on the community through its grassroots initiatives.
Upside Academy, Inc. – Upside Academy empowered local youth through leadership development, volunteerism and community service projects. The organization provided critical support to families while fostering civic engagement among young people.
The nominees in this category included:
- Beyond the Stars No Limits
- Gridstone Inc.
- The Motherhood Project
- White Wolf Wellness Foundation
Nonprofit of the Year – Sponsored by Kern Family Health Care
Honors a nonprofit organization for its significant and lasting impact on the community.
The Open Door Network – The Open Door Network served more than 5,000 individuals through housing and victim services programs, providing shelter, safety and pathways toward long-term stability. Their recent expansion positions them to serve even more community members in need.
The nominees in this category included:
- Independent Living Center of Kern County
- La Vida Nueva
- Special Needs Network
- TigerFight Foundation
- United Way of Central Eastern California
- Valley Center for the Blind
Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by Bank of America
A small business (25 employees or fewer) whose contributions, products, or services instill pride and benefit the community.
Maverick Medical – Maverick Medical delivered integrated healthcare services while expanding access to mental health support, obesity treatment and veterans’ care. Through community education and patient-centered care, the practice continues to improve lives across Kern County.
The nominees in this category included:
- Barton Marketing Group
- Green Clean Pros
- LinQride Inc.
- Pilates Barre
- Saint Florian Leather Company
- TM Signs and Graphics
- Whitestone Industries
Large Business / Corporation of the Year – Sponsored by ARRC Technology
A business recognized for its substantial impact through volunteer work, donations or community engagement.
Kern Family Health Care – Kern Family Health Care invested millions of dollars into housing, community grants and direct services while supporting dozens of local initiatives. Their employees also volunteered hundreds of hours to strengthen the communities they serve
The nominees in this category included:
- California Resources Corporation
- Centre for Neuro Skills
- Houchin Community Blood Bank
Next Gen – Sponsored by Kern County Superintendent of Schools
A young individual or group (grades K-12) with exceptional citizenship and community involvement.
Patrick Zubiran – Last year, at just 10 years of age, Patrick Zubiran organized five donation drives, distributing over 50,000 essential items to struggling families. Through Patrick’s Pantry project, he brought holiday joy to seniors and youth, collecting hundreds of toys and meals. His leadership proves that compassion and action have no age limit.
The nominees in this category included:
- Carter Beardsley
- Chloe Grace Porter
- Guneet Kaur
Young Professional – Sponsored by AFC Urgent Care
An individual (ages 18-40) whose contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Savannah Oates – Through her leadership at CAPK, Savannah Oates expanded access to food, housing and family services while mobilizing volunteers and advocating for vulnerable populations. Her work has positively impacted thousands of Kern County residents.
The nominees in this category included:
- Gabriel Adame
- Joe Garcia
- Lindsay Barnes
- Rafael Molina
Business Person of the Year – Sponsored by Tri Counties Bank
A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.
Nik Boone – Nik Boone continued to grow Ascend Real Estate & Property Management while creating local jobs and workforce opportunities. His partnership with CSUB has helped young professionals launch careers and remain in Bakersfield.
The nominees in this category included:
- Buffie Norby
- Michelle Penn
- Morey Mirkazemi
- Patrick Beck
- Priya Saha
- Quon Louey
Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Hall Ambulance Service
A local, long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact on Bakersfield and its residents.
Bryan Burrow – For three decades, Bryan Burrow has provided leadership and service to numerous organizations throughout Bakersfield. His dedication to civic engagement, philanthropy and community improvement has left a lasting legacy across Kern County.
The nominees in this category inlcuded:
- Emmanuel Strategos, MD & Stephen Strategos, MD
- Greg Gallion
- Renee Bhaiji
- Senator Shannon Grove
Chairman’s Award
This award is selected by the Chairman of the Chamber’s executive board from all nominees and honors an individual or organization that exemplifies excellence and commitment to the community.
Jaubrae Ryan Dixon – Jaubrae Ryan Dixon was recognized for his transformative work mentoring at-risk youth and helping individuals break cycles of violence, gang involvement and incarceration through hope, accountability and personal growth.
President’s Award
Presented at the discretion of the Chamber’s President & CEO, this award celebrates exceptional leadership, partnership, and dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant Bakersfield through meaningful support of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber and the broader community.
Chris Kelley, Hard Rock Casino Tejon and Octavio Escobedo III, Tejon Indian Tribe – The recipients were honored for their commitment to regional collaboration, economic growth, and community investment.
Nominations for the 2027 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards are open! Nominations must be for work completed in 2026 to be eligible for consideration.
Deadline: Friday, January 29, 2027
